Learn how to convert cubic yards to tons for accurate material ordering. Includes density factors, material-specific calculations, and professional ordering tips for construction and landscaping projects.
Key Formula: Tons = Cubic Yards × Material Density Factor |Purpose: Convert volume measurements to weight for supplier ordering
Density: 1.5 tons/cubic yard
Category: aggregate
Different materials have different densities. Select the appropriate density factor for your specific material.
Tons = Cubic Yards × Density Factor
Example: 10 cubic yards of gravel × 1.4 tons/cubic yard = 14 tons
Always confirm density factors with your material supplier, as local variations can affect these numbers.
| Material | Density Factor (Tons/CY) | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|
| Gravel (Crushed) | 1.4 | 1.3 - 1.5 |
| Sand (Dry) | 1.3 | 1.2 - 1.4 |
| Topsoil | 1.1 | 1.0 - 1.3 |
| Concrete | 2.4 | 2.0 - 2.4 |
| Clay (Dry) | 1.8 | 1.6 - 2.0 |
| Mulch (Bark) | 0.6 | 0.4 - 0.8 |
Volume: 15 cubic yards
Material: Crushed gravel (1.4 tons/cy)
Calculation: 15 × 1.4 = 21 tons
Order: 21-23 tons (with 10% extra)
Volume: 8 cubic yards
Material: Topsoil (1.1 tons/cy)
Calculation: 8 × 1.1 = 8.8 tons
Order: 9-10 tons (with settling allowance)
Volume: 12 cubic yards
Material: Ready-mix concrete (2.4 tons/cy)
Calculation: 12 × 2.4 = 28.8 tons
Order: 29 tons (full yard increments)
Always order 5-15% extra material to account for spillage, compaction, and grading. Better to have a little leftover than run short mid-project.
Contact your supplier for exact density factors. Local material variations can significantly affect weight calculations.
Most suppliers sell by weight, not volume. Ordering by cubic yards when they sell by tons can lead to costly under-ordering.
Wet materials weigh more than dry materials. Always specify moisture conditions when getting density factors from suppliers.